Meet Green Hills Elementary School's New Principal

Here Patch learns more about Sandra Phillips, the new principal at Green Hills Elementary. 

Click here for related back-to-school coverage.

Where are you from?

I am a native of Southern California (Los Angeles). I moved to Millbrae three years ago with my husband and four kids. My husband is also an educator and we moved to Millbrae as a midpoint between my work in San Francisco at the time and his work in East Palo Alto.
 
What's your professional background?

This will be my fifth year as an elementary school principal. I've served in school administration for over 7 years and taught in public schools in Oakland, Los Angeles, and New York City. My last appointment was Head of School of Vincent academy in Oakland.
 
What excites you about working in Millbrae and at Green Hills in particular?

My children attend elementary, middle, and high school here in the wonderful schools of Millbrae and as a parent and professional it feels good to dedicate my experience and energy right here in my local community. The Green Hills staff is a very dedicated and cohesive team of educators, and a very warm school community. I’m excited to build on the outstanding work that has been done here while introducing the instructional initiatives of the Millbrae School District under the leadership of our superintendent, Linda Luna.
 
What are the best and toughest parts of your job?

The best part is getting to know the students, discovering their inner personalities and talents, and seeing them grow. The work of an administrator is like the work of a musical symphony conductor. We are always striving to ensure that all stakeholders have what they need to complete their work and functions for the schoolwork and that everyone can work in harmony, to continuously achieve great outcomes for all students.
 
How has the beginning of school been going? Yesterday was the first day of school, and it was just great! I collaborate with a strong team of instructional leaders, and an active parent community here in Millbrae, so I am off to a great start for the school year!

Are there any events, deadlines, or programs you want to remind students or parents about?

It's important for families to know that we are ready and excited to receive them. I want to remind everyone, especially our families that our school day this year is from 8:15-2:15pm daily M, T, W, Th, F at Green Hills School.  We need families to bring students to school on time and pick up students promptly at our new daily dismissal time. There will be NO SCHOOL on Monday, September 3rd for Labor Day. Families should save September 11th on the calendar for Back to School Night at Green hills at 6pm. We will have early dismissal on that day at 1:15pm.

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